Part three of our five part series on Unconventional Funding


For independent filmmakers looking for unconventional sources of funding, government grants and pre-selling international rights can provide crucial financial support. These methods not only reduce the reliance on traditional studio backing but also offer unique opportunities to connect with global audiences.


Many filmmakers are aware of tax incentives, but some are tapping into more obscure public funding programs. Government grants, such as cultural preservation grants or arts development funds, can often be repurposed for film projects. These grants are especially valuable for documentary filmmakers or those producing historical fiction, where the film aligns with the goals of preserving heritage or promoting the arts.


Another effective strategy is pre-selling international distribution rights. By negotiating with international distributors before production begins, filmmakers can secure funding by selling the rights to distribute their film in specific markets. This not only helps to raise cash flow but also creates early momentum for the film’s global release. Pre-selling rights is especially useful for films with cross-cultural appeal or strong international themes.


By leveraging public grants and pre-selling international rights, independent filmmakers can access a broader range of financial resources and bring their stories to a wider, global audience.

Chris Sturges, Business Development Director for

Suspiciously Convenient Productions Inc

Contact: chris@suspiciouslyconvenient.com

Tags: #Film Industry #Local Business #Vancouver #Vancouver Films #IndieFilmFunding #FilmmakerGrants #CreativeFinance

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